The sensory experiences of people on the spectrum take center stage in a new documentary set to air on television.

In what the film’s creators say is a first, “Spectrum: A Story of the Mind” looks at autism through the lens of taste, smell, touch, sight and sound.

“This film goes beyond awareness into acceptance,” said producer Jill Jones.

“Our society often mistakenly views people on the spectrum with fear, as lacking empathy. We explore worlds where lights, sounds, colors affect behavior hoping to educate and inspire empathy from neurotypical people,” Jones said.

Using live action and animation, the documentary tells the story of autism from the perspective of various people on the spectrum including renowned self-advocate Temple Grandin as well as a nonverbal poet and author, a painter and a martial artist.

The 23-minute film, which premiered in 2015 at the United Nations as part of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, will air starting April 4 on PBS stations across the country.

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